What are some of the short-term goals that you have?

This is a fascinating one of those phone interview questions.

Don’t think about money here guys. The interviewer wants to know the short-term goals that you would like to fulfill at the company if you get hired to work there.

Here’s a good answer: “I want to learn as much as I can about OUR company’s products and our company’s prospects. I then want to use the knowledge I learned and start applying it to [job function]. I also would like to build relationships with my coworkers so that I can avoid any common mistakes. I think these will help me reach my long term goals faster and I will be able to take advantage of opportunities.”

I talk more about these types of catch 22 questions in our ebook. I'll give the link at the end of this article. You must must find the happy medium with these types of questions, where you are honest and confident at the same time.

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What are your long-term goals, as in 5 years from now?

No, don’t say you want to transfer another department or how you want to be a entrepreneur. Instead say this: “I see myself performing very well at this company. The company’s customers and other partners are all very happy with me. I’m getting referrals and have built a long-term relationship with them. I have made many mentors. ”

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And do you know why you would like to work in this particular industry?

You need preparation for this answer. Try to keep up with the national news on the industry. What’s going on there? What’s the impact on families and the community? You have to find something that you’re passionate about that also aligns the company’s goals.

If you want to learn about more interview questions and techniques, I suggest you join the newsletter list at the following site, type your name and email address in the boxes provided. We also have an ebook available that will help you ace your next interview. Here's the link: Impress Your Interviewers!

I wish you the best of luck. Tell me how it goes!

Ian Iacocca

Impress Your Interviewers!